5 Ways To Improve Veteran Health Care Services

There are too many stories about our armed service members not receiving adequate resources and the health care they need. The conversation needs to change. We can help.

Tying resources together to navigate veterans and their families to the appropriate clinical services is one of the ways Northwell Health makes a difference in the lives of American veterans and their families. During a 2017 pilot program that utilized three hospitals and its NYServes network, Northwell helped steer thousands of veterans to care.

Here are five ways to improve health care for this population.

For more healthcare articles, visit The Well by Northwell.

1. Provide access

By expanding access, you open doors to treatments and provide options for military members and their families. Access is important to all individuals, but for veterans, giving options could be the difference from serious illness to recovery.

2. Educate

Education is power. It starts in the emergency departments and ambulatory facilities where staff is the first contact. They meet the patient, understand issues and begin to coordinate care.

3. Deliver value

The needs of veterans, active military and their families are unique. Veterans battle homelessness, mental health issues and service-related diseases such as PTSD. Take the time to know these individuals. Ask questions about their service: what branch they were in, how long and where they served. If a veteran employee is available to assist, ask the individual if they feel more comfortable speaking with a fellow veteran. By learning who they are, you will improve outcomes.

Want more on the latest in healthcare? Visit The Well by Northwell.

4. Be impactful

Caring for veterans means you are caring for their families. Not all veterans will want to talk about their experiences. Be respectful of preferences. Talk to their families if possible. You may be dealing with serious or life-threatening diseases that could prompt painful memories.

Get more healthcare news at The Well by Northwell.

5. Spread awareness

Health care organizations are already entrenched in the community. Announce programs and services to various community leaders and veterans groups. Also, connect with military leaders to form partnerships that will hopefully funnel active military and veterans to your organization.

More from The Well by Northwell:

• Live With Less Stress In 4 Steps
• 5 Ways To Exercise At The Office
• 5 Facts About Depression And Mood Disorders

Written by Juan Serrano. Serrano is program director for Northwell Health’s Military and Veterans Liaison Services, which offers a dozen of programs to support service members and their families. He joined the health system after serving in the Marines for nine years, which included two tours in Iraq.

Photo credit: Getty Image